Chadwick Boseman's Family Reveals He Was Secretly Married

The news broke last night about Chadwick Boseman's tragic and untimely death from colon cancer, a disease the prolific and talented actor had lived with for four years. The news came as a surprise to many, as Boseman had completed many films over that time frame while receiving treatment for the disease — including Marshall, Da 5 Bloods, Black Panther, two Avengers movies (Infinity War and Endgame), and the upcoming Ma Rainey's Black Bottom (via IMDb). 

While many were unaware of his fight with cancer, there weren't many people who knew he had gotten married, either. Boseman, who was very quiet about his personal life, had discreetly wed his fiancee within the last few months, as confirmed by his family (via Page Six).

In the announcement posted on his Twitter account, a statement read, "He died in his home, with his wife and family by his side. The family thanks you for your love and prayers, and asks that you continue to respect their privacy during this difficult time."

According to Page Six, the pair had first been spotted together in 2015, and reports that they were engaged in October 2019. Ledward is a graduate of Cal Polytechnic University Pomona where she had majored in music industry studies and was a singer in the school's jazz band.

Ledward's family was supportive and happy for the couple, as her grandmother told In Touch Weekly in 2018 and they respect one another and they were both very happy. Also, her sister reportedly wrote on Instagram, "His real life queen is gorgeous, and together they embody true love. Not to mention they would make some beautiful babies."

While the couple has been spotted together often, their relationship was kept as private as it could possibly be, considering Boseman's fame. They were often seen together at various Hollywood events and courtside at various NBA games.

Despite the secrecy, he made his feelings for her known at the NAACP Image Awards in March 2019. When he accepted the award for Outstanding Actor in a Motion Picture, he said, "Simone, you're with me every day. I have to acknowledge you right now. Love you."